Kieran R. Healy's Five Top-Drawer War Movies

Glory (1989): Hands down my favorite war epic movie. Being from Massachusetts and having stood in front of the sculpture that appears in the final credits, I really take this film to heart as a matter of pride as an American (revisionist history be damned). Watching the 54th Regiment overcome everything for the simple chance to participate in the fight for their own freedom is a real emotional ordeal. I get misty just thinking about it. James Horner's score is perfect, as is Freddie Francis' finest work behind the camera, not to mention the acting, directing, and writing. Easily one of my No. 1 movies.

Full Metal Jacket (1987): Probably the best film on the deconstruction of the human spirit by war that I've ever seen. The conflicting emotions of Joker as he does the "humane" thing at the end, and the camera sticking with him immediately following, just kills me.

The Hurt Locker (2008): Hands down the finest movie on post-9/11 warfare I have seen. I don't think there will be a better one. I had family come back from Iraq, see that movie, and say it was "real" – not just in action, but emotion. The power of this film is its intelligence and honesty. Incredible.

The Blue Max (1966): Pre-A-Team George Peppard, James Mason, Ursula Andress looking gorgeous. Incredible aerial photography, incredible cinematography. Intrigue, deception, and soldierly ambition. I wish more people knew about this movie.

Stalag 17 (1953): Beautiful cinematography, tightly written, and easily one of Billy Wilder's best movies, which makes it one of the best movies ever. Greatest "STFU" line to end a movie ever.